In sure circles, the phrase “Garmin” is much less a model title than a class definer, like Q-Tip or Band-Aid. From informal hikers to nationally ranked skilled athletes, anybody who loves outside sports activities can glean helpful data from the bevy of sensors, security options, and complicated software program that include each Garmin watch. A few other fitness trackers have come close to replicating Garmin’s sturdiness, wearability, and reliability, however the firm stays the trade normal. Unlike, say, an Apple Watch, Garmins additionally work with each iPhones and Android telephones.

Many options that solely lately debuted on different health trackers, like sleep monitoring, blood oxygen measurements, and fall detection, have been on Garmin watches for years. Over the half-dozen years, the WIRED staff has examined dozens of Garmin watches. Let us assist resolve which Garmin is finest for you.

Once you are arrange along with your Garmin, remember to take a look at our purchasing guides to the Best Barefoot Shoes, the Best Wireless Workout Buds, or the Best Hiking Gear.

Updated October 2023: We added the Vivomove Trend, the Epix Pro (Gen 2), the Venu 3, the Vivosmart 5, the Edge 840 Solar, and the Garmin Forerunner 255. We additionally up to date hyperlinks and pricing all through.

Special provide for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This contains limitless entry to WIRED.com and our print journal (if you would like). Subscriptions assist fund the work we do every single day.